Problem 73

Question

Simplify each algebraic expression. $$3 x-9 x$$

Step-by-Step Solution

Verified
Answer
The simplified form of the algebraic expression \(3x - 9x\) is \(12x\).
1Step 1: Identify Like Terms
The given expression contains two like terms, \(3x\) and \(-9x\), which share the same variable \(x\). Like terms are terms that have the same variable to the same power.
2Step 2: Combine Like Terms
Next, subtract the coefficients (the numerical parts) of these like terms using the operation given in the expression. The operation between \(3x\) and \(-9x\) is subtraction. Therefore, subtract the coefficient of \(3x\) (which is 3) from the coefficient of \(-9x\) (which is -9), to get \(3 - (-9) = 3 + 9 = 12.\)
3Step 3: Write the Simplified expression
Apply the result to the variable \(x\) to get the resulting expression. Thus, \(3x - 9x\) simplifies to \(12x\).